Travis “Virgo the Poet” Hailes is a native of Portsmouth, VA, and a living testimony of what it means to beat the odds. Raised in the projects and growing up in the custody of the state of Virginia as a “child of the ward,” Travis found his voice through writing and his discipline through sports. Rather than allowing his troubled upbringing to define him negatively, he chose to transform his pain into purpose, becoming a mentor, activist for positive change, and a warrior of peace.

A graduate of Hampton University, Travis earned his Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation while attending on a football scholarship. Prior to that, he made his mark in Richmond, VA, as a standout high school athlete, becoming a Hall of Famer in three sports.

Travis is an inspirational speaker and nationally recognized spoken word artist who uses his platform to uplift, empower, and bring healing through his raw yet refined delivery. With over two decades of writing experience, he has published six powerful books, including the acclaimed Pieces of Me: Poetry in Motion—the first installment of a four-part series that reveals fragments of his soul through every poem.

Now a devoted husband and proud father of two, Travis balances his corporate career with nonprofit work, poetry, public speaking, and youth sports coaching. Whether he's mentoring young athletes or performing on stage, he brings authenticity, energy, and wisdom drawn from a life of overcoming.

Travis Hailes is not just a poet—he is living proof that your past doesn’t determine your future. Through every word he writes and every life he touches, he continues to show that growth, healing, and purpose are all possible—even when the odds are stacked against you.